Yamunotri, also Jamnotri, is the source of the Yamuna River and the seat of the Goddess Yamuna in Hinduism.It is situated at an altitude of 3,293 metres (10,804 ft) in the Garhwal Himalayas and located approximately 150 kilometers (93 mi) North of Uttarkashi, the headquarters of the Uttarkashi district in the Garhwal Division of Uttarakhand, India. It is one of the four sites in India's Chhota Char Dham pilgrimage. The sacred shrine of Yamunotri, source of the river Yamuna, is the westernmost shrine in the Garhwal Himalayas, perched atop a flank of Bandar Poonch Parvat. The chief attraction at Yamunotri is the temple devoted to the Goddess Yamuna and the holy thermal springs at Janki Chatti which is 7 km away.
The actual source, a frozen lake of ice and glacier (Champasar Glacier) located on the Kalind Mountain at a height of 4,421 m above sea level, about 1 km further up, is not frequented generally as it is not accessible; hence the shrine has been located on the foot of the hill. The approach is extremely difficult and pilgrims therefore offer puja at the temple itself.
The temple of Yamuna, on the left bank of the Yamuna, was constructed by Maharaja Pratap Shah of Tehri Garhwal. The deity is made of black marble. The Yamuna, like the Ganges, has been elevated to the status of a divine mother for the Hindus and has been held responsible for nurturing and developing the Indian civilization.
Opening Time: Late April to early May
Closing Time: Early November
Yamunotri as depicted by James Baillie Fraser (1820). According to the ancient legend, sage Asit Muni had his hermitage here. All his life, he bathed daily both in the Ganges and the Yamuna. Unable to go to Gangotri during his old age, a stream of the Ganges appeared opposite Yamunotri f him.Sangya is the birthplace of the Yamuna in the Champasar Glacier (4,421 m) just below the Banderpoonch Mountain. The mountain adjacent to the river source is dedicated to her father, and is called Kalind Parvat, (Kalind being another name for the sun deity - Surya). Yamuna is known for her frivolousness, a trait that she developed because, according to a common story, Yamuna's mother could never make eye contact with her dazzling husband.
1. Yamunotri Temple: The main attraction in Yamunotri is the Yamunotri Temple, which is devoted to Goddess Yamuna. The temple is constructed in the traditional Himalayan style and features a black marble idol of the goddess.
2. Origin of the Yamuna River: Yamunotri is the actual source of the Yamuna River, and the temple is situated at an elevation of approximately 3,293 meters (10,804 feet) above sea level. The Yamuna River originates from the Champasar Glacier near the temple.
3. Religious Significance: Yamunotri is an important pilgrimage destination for Hindus. Devotees visit the temple to pay their respects to Goddess Yamuna and take a holy dip in the thermal hot springs, known as the Surya Kund and Gauri Kund, before entering the temple.
4. Char Dham Yatra: Yamunotri is one of the four Char Dham pilgrimage sites in India, along with Badrinath, Kedarnath, and Gangotri. Many pilgrims embark on the Char Dham Yatra to seek blessings and spiritual fulfillment.
5. Trek to Yamunotri: To reach Yamunotri, pilgrims often have to trek for about 6 kilometers from the town of Hanuman Chatti. The trek is relatively moderate in difficulty and offers scenic views of the surrounding mountains and forests. Horses, ponies, or palanquins are available for those who may have difficulty walking.
6. Weather Conditions: Yamunotri experiences cold weather throughout the year, with temperatures dropping significantly at night. The temple is usually open to pilgrims from late April or early May to early November. During the winter months, it remains covered in snow and is inaccessible.
7. Accommodation: Yamunotri offers limited accommodation options for pilgrims, including guesthouses and dharamshalas (pilgrim rest houses). Due to the remote location and high demand during the pilgrimage season, it's advisable to book your stay in advance.
8. Gangotri and Gangotri Glacier: Yamunotri is often visited in conjunction with Gangotri, another Char Dham pilgrimage site located nearby. Gangotri is dedicated to Goddess Ganga, and the Gangotri Glacier is the source of the Ganges River.
9. Prakateshwar Cave: Near Yamunotri, you can explore the Prakateshwar Cave, which is associated with Lord Shiva. It is believed to be the place where Lord Shiva secluded himself while leaving behind Nandi, his divine vehicle.
Yamunotri is not only a place of religious significance but also a destination that offers natural beauty and tranquility in the Himalayan region. Pilgrims and tourists visit this sacred site to seek blessings, cleanse their souls, and immerse themselves in the serene environment.
1. Reach Dehradun or Haridwar:
Your journey to Yamunotri typically begins in the cities of Dehradun or Haridwar, both of which are well-connected to major cities in India by train and road. The nearest major railway station to Yamunotri is Haridwar.
2. Travel to Hanuman Chatti:
3. Trek to Yamunotri:
4. Visit Yamunotri Temple:
5. Return Journey:
Important Tips:
Yamunotri offers a unique spiritual and natural experience, and the trek through the Himalayan terrain provides an opportunity to connect with nature and seek the blessings of Goddess Yamuna.
